Cherishing every Raya with family

Mohammad Azfar Matnor (second from right) with his brother (left), mother (second from left) and his two younger sisters.

FOR 24-YEAR OLD Mohammad Azfar Matnor, better known among his friends as ‘Baby’ or ‘Aspa’, each Hari Raya Aidilfitri has had its memorable moment for him growing up.

“Hari Raya has always been special to me, because this is the only time when my family members, cousins, aunties, uncles and other relatives will be able to gather around as one big family.”

Although he could not be home in Kuching to celebrate Raya with his family this year due to his job in Kuala Lumpur, he will celebrate it moderately with his acquaintances and colleagues in Peninsular Malaysia.

“I would like to send my condolences to those affected by the MH17 as it has been shocking news for them especially in this holy month, and Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri to every Muslim in Malaysia, especially to my family and friends back in Sarawak, Maaf Zahir dan Batin.”

A time for self-renewal and forgiveness

Melissa (front, left) with her family members during Hari Raya Aidilfitri last year.

Meanwhile for Melissa Omar, 24, Hari Raya is all about healing.

“Starting afresh in the new year, you replenish your energy to be stronger, you renew yourself for better dreams and you live your days happier.”

While there is no definite single memorable Raya moment for her, the best part of Raya that she cherishes most is the custom of asking others for forgiveness after the Raya prayers on the first day of Syawal. “It makes you reflect on misdeeds that may have hurt your parents in any way. You then learn to appreciate your parents more and be thankful that they have been there for you all these years.”

On the MH17 tragedy that happened on July 17, she remarked, “MH17 may not affect my Raya preparations directly but imagining myself to be in their shoes, I can relate to their grief and loss. In some way, it aspires me to be stronger for them. Having lost those they cherished, they need us most at this point of time. The tragedy can never be undone. But as caring Malaysians, our emotional support and comfort will indeed be a great help to them at this difficult time.

“I would like to wish Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Maaf Zahir dan Batin to my family, friends and those who celebrates it and I hope to create more good memories with my loved ones this Raya.”